title: Outcomes of dental hygiene baccalaureate degree education in Canada.
abstract: There is little published literature about the outcomes of dental hygiene baccalaureate degree education, particularly in Canada. Since there are various dental hygiene entry-to-practice educational models in Canada, exploring baccalaureate dental hygiene education is becoming an increasingly important subject. The purpose of this study was to explore the personal outcomes and dental hygiene practice outcomes of dental hygiene degree-completion education in Canada from the perspectives of diploma dental hygienists who have continued their education to the bachelor's degree level. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological design, using a maximum variation purposeful sampling strategy. Data generation occurred with sixteen dental hygienists across Canada through individual semistructured interviews. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded for data analysis, involving pattern recognition and thematic development. Themes that emerged included changes in self-perception, values, and knowledge base. Changes in self-perception were reflected in a reported increase in self-confidence and perceived credibility. Changes in values included a greater appreciation for lifelong learning. Advancements in knowledge strengthened the development of specific abilities that ultimately influenced participants' dental hygiene practice. These abilities included an increased ability to think critically, to make evidence-based decisions, and to provide more comprehensive care. Participants also commented on having more career opportunities available to them outside of the private clinical practice setting. These results reveal important insights into the impact of earning a dental hygiene baccalaureate degree on oneself and one's dental hygiene practice.
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, 2199 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada. zulkanji@interchange.ubc.ca
authors.forename: Zul
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Kanji
authors.forename: Susanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sunell
authors.forename: Geertje
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Boschma
authors.forename: Pauline
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Imai
authors.forename: Bonnie J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Craig
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002170:Canada; D002321:Career Choice; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003190:Comprehensive Dental Care; D003657:Decision Making; D003756:Dental Hygienists / Q000193:education* / Q000592:standards; D004496:Education, Continuing; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice; D006302:Health Services Research; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D011331:Private Practice; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000592:standards; D012649:Self Concept; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012945:Social Values; D013850:Thinking